Dr. Gary Benedetti
treats musculoskeletal conditions,
complicated fractures and sports injuries and performs joint
replacement surgery. He was born and raised in the San
Francisco Bay Area. He is a decorated veteran of numerous
military deployments and completed 20 years of service
in the U.S. Air Force. Outside of medicine, he spends his
time with his dogs, kayaks and hikes, and he is learning to
kiteboard.
Dr. Michele Prevost
is a general orthopedic surgeon
who specializes in hand surgery. She brings experience in
musculoskeletal care for all age groups, including
arthroscopy of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee and ankle;
sports injuries; and fracture care. She spent almost 25
years in the U.S. Air Force, attaining the rank of lieutenant
colonel, and is a veteran of several deployments. She
received her medical degree from the Uniformed Services
University of the Health Sciences. Her hobbies include
spending time with her dogs, hiking and cross-country
skiing, and she is a novice kiteboarder.
After surgery, physical therapy is
essential. Among other things, physical
therapy helps strengthen muscles
around the new joint, improves
flexibility and reduces pain.
Making your decision
Joint replacement surgery is usually
very successful, even life-changing, for
many people, including older patients.
Most people who have these surgeries
are happy with the results, especially the
greater independence that comes with
pain-free movement.
Of course, like any surgery, joint
replacement has risks.
Before you agree to an operation, ask
your doctor:
w
Are there nonsurgical remedies—
such as different medications or new
exercises—I could try?
w
What are the risks and benefits of the
specific surgery I may need?
w
What restrictions will I have after
surgery? How long will they last?
w
What postsurgery therapy will I need?
w
How long is my new joint likely to last?
It might also be a good idea to get
an opinion from a second surgeon and
to talk with other patients who have
had similar operations. In the end, the
decision to have surgery is yours.
Sources: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons;
Arthritis Foundation; National Institute of Arthritis and
Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Gary
Benedetti, MD
Michele
Prevost, MD
New Orthopedic Doctors
Please welcome Langlade Hospital board-certified surgeons who specialize in
caring for injuries and illnesses that affect your bones, joints, ligaments, tendons,
muscles and nerves, as well as sprains, strains, fractures, tendonitis, bursitis and
arthritis. For an appointment, call
715-623-9346
.
• Pathways
9
